2 Chronicles 28:4

Authorized King James Version

He sacrificed also and burnt incense in the high places, and on the hills, and under every green tree.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְזַבֵּ֧חַ
He sacrificed
to slaughter an animal (usually in sacrifice)
#2
וַיְקַטֵּ֛ר
also and burnt incense
to smoke, i.e., turn into fragrance by fire (especially as an act of worship)
#3
בַּבָּמ֖וֹת
in the high places
an elevation
#4
וְעַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
הַגְּבָע֑וֹת
and on the hills
a hillock
#6
וְתַ֖חַת
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#7
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#8
עֵ֥ץ
tree
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
#9
רַֽעֲנָֽן׃
and under every green
verdant; by analogy, new; figuratively, prosperous

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Chronicles. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Chronicles Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection